Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2020
782. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health the additional measures that will be introduced to support lung cancer patients through the psychological burden of their diagnosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42089/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraPsycho-oncology supports for cancer patients continue to be developed in designated cancer centres and community cancer support centres in line with the National Cancer Strategy. The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) emphasises psycho-oncology services as a core part of complete cancer care. While individual programmes are not in place for different tumour types, supports for lung cancer patients would be regarded as particularly important given the seriousness of the disease.
The NCCP has appointed a Clinical Lead for Psycho-Oncology who is working on the development of services, including through following up on the outcomes of the National Survivorship Needs Assessment.
Also, a Together 4 Cancer Concern initiative was launched in April as a collaboration between the National Cancer Control Programme, the Irish Cancer Society and Cancer Care West. This initiative provides a range of support to cancer patients and their families during the Covid-19 period, ranging from a dedicated support phone line to psychological assessment and intervention.
